Merritt Millpond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Merritt Millpond Dam, located in Sarecta, North Carolina, is a state-owned earth dam built in 1800 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet, with a length of 700 feet. It serves the Goshen Swamp and provides a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 79 cubic feet per second. Despite being a significant hazard potential structure, the dam's condition is currently not rated as of its last inspection in October 2015.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Merritt Millpond Dam an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and recreational purpose. The dam offers a glimpse into early water management practices in the region and continues to serve as a recreational site for visitors. With its proximity to the Goshen Swamp and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing a habitat for various species of wildlife in the area. While its hazard potential is significant, the dam's structural integrity and maintenance are vital aspects to ensure the safety and functionality of this important water resource.
As a state-regulated dam in Duplin County, North Carolina, Merritt Millpond Dam undergoes regular inspections to assess its condition and ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently not rated or available. With its historical significance, recreational value, and role in water management, Merritt Millpond Dam remains a fascinating structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and monitor for future developments in the region.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
700 |
River Or Stream |
Goshen Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
631cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
290cfs |
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
281cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
917cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Merritt Millpond Dam